Lemon roast chicken
Tips
Make sure the chicken is at room temperature before roasting, which will help it cook more evenly. Remember to pat it dry before coating it with butter, herbs, and seasoning. This will help the skin become crispier. And finally, make sure to let it rest for at least 10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to settle and ensure maximum flavour and tenderness.
Tips
It is crucial to ensure that the lemon roast chicken is fully cooked. The most reliable way to determine if the chicken is done is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken, making sure not to touch the bone. The internal temperature should reach about 75°C. Another method is to cut into the thickest part of the meat and check the colour of the juices. If the juices run clear rather than pink, and the meat is no longer pink, then the lemon roast chicken is most likely cooked through.
Questions about roast chicken
Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, there are always new tips and tricks to learn. From cooking times to seasoning, there are a lot of factors that go into making the perfect lemon roast chicken. Read on to learn more about the classic dish.
Start by cleaning and drying the chicken and removing the wing tips and tail. Mix butter, lemon zest, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper and rub the mixture all over the chicken, inside and out. Stuff lemon wedges inside it and secure it with a skewer. Then place it in a small roasting pan with the breast facing up, sprinkle with salt, and roast for approx. 90 minutes at 175°C, discarding the juices after the first 45 minutes. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving, either whole or carved into pieces.
A chicken of about 1200 g should be roasted for around 90 minutes at 175°C. However, this may vary greatly depending on its size. To ensure that it is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should read at least 75°C when inserted into the thickest, meatiest part.
There are many ways to use leftover lemon roast chicken. For a light option, shred or chop it up and mix it with mayonnaise, celery, and almonds to make a chicken salad. To make a more substantial meal, use the bones to create a flavourful broth and add noodles and vegetables for a hearty soup. Shredded, it can also be used in tacos or stir-fried vegetables for a quick and easy meal. For a cosy dish, use it in a homemade pot pie with peas, carrots, and a creamy sauce.
When it comes to serving lemon roast chicken, there are many delicious sides to choose from. One option is roasted vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or brussels sprouts, which can be tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper for a tasty addition. Creamy mashed potatoes with butter and garlic are also a classic side that complements lemon roast chicken well. A green salad with a simple vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the chicken, while a flavourful gravy made with drippings can be drizzled over the meat and sides.
Lemon roast chicken can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. To ensure that it stays fresh for as long as possible, it should be stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in cling film or foil. You should also let the chicken cool down before refrigerating it to prevent bacteria growth.
Yes, you can freeze roast chicken. To do so, make sure it has cooled down to room temperature. Then, remove the meat from the bones and place it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 4 months. When you are ready to use it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Alternatively, you can thaw it in the microwave on the defrost setting.
Getting crispy skin on lemon roast chicken is all about proper preparation and technique. Before roasting it, make sure to pat the skin dry with paper towels. This will remove any excess moisture and promote crispiness. Rubbing the skin with butter will also help create a crispy texture. Roast it at a high temperature, around 175°C to 200°C. This will not only ensure a crispy crust but also help brown the skin. After roasting it, let it rest for a few minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and help keep the skin crispy.
To remove the legs, use a sharp knife or kitchen shears to cut between the leg and the body of the chicken, pulling the leg away until the joint pops. Cut through the joint to remove the leg completely and repeat on the other side. To remove the wings, pull each wing away from the body and use the knife or shears to cut through the joint. To remove the breast meat, cut along the breastbone on both sides and remove each breast in one piece. Finally, arrange the pieces on a platter and serve with your favourite sides.
Ingredients
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Chicken (approx. 1200 g)
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1 |
|---|---|
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Soft butter
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50 g |
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Finely grated lemon zest (unsprayed)
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1 tsp |
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Small, crushed garlic cloves
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2 |
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Coarsely chopped fresh rosemary
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2 tbsp |
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Coarse salt
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1 tsp |
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Freshly ground black pepper
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|
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Lemon (unsprayed), cut into 8 wedges
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1 |
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Coarse salt
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1 tsp |
Garnish
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Lemon (unsprayed), cut into 8 wedges
|
1 |
|---|
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Serve with potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusted bread
Looking for the perfect side dish to complement your lemon roast chicken? You cannot go wrong with a variety of options! For a classic pairing, try serving it with roasted potatoes, either boiled or mashed, and some seasonal roasted vegetables. If you are feeling daring, try a side of crusty bread or a tangy salad for a refreshing contrast. The roasted meat is so versatile that it can be paired with almost anything, from a light and fresh quinoa salad to a hearty potato gratin. Whatever you choose, be sure to savour each bite of the juicy, tender meat.
For more delectable sides for your lemon roast chicken, try out recipes for creamy potatoes au gratin, roast pumpkin salad, or bulgur salad with lemon and white cheese.
Simple oven-baked dinner for the whole family
When it comes to easy, delicious dinners for the whole family, it is hard to beat a lemon roast chicken. This simple oven-baked dish requires minimal effort and is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. And the best part? You can cook your potatoes or vegetables in the same oven, even the same tray or baking dish, making the clean-up a breeze. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can have a mouth-watering meal that the whole family will love – not even your kids will be able to resist it. So why not add lemon roast chicken to your weekly dinner rotation? It is easy, delicious, and sure to become a family favourite in no time.
Make it your own
Experimenting with the recipe for lemon roast chicken can be a fun and creative way to add your personal touch to this classic dish. One way to mix things up is to try different herbs and spices, like thyme or paprika, to give the meat a new flavour profile. Another option is to add some honey or maple syrup to the lemon juice for a touch of sweetness. You could even try stuffing the chicken with different ingredients, such as garlic or onion, to create a deliciously aromatic dish. Do not be afraid to get creative and have some fun in the kitchen!